NDAK14005U Randomized Algorithms
(RA)

Randomized algorithms are often far superior to their
traditional deterministic counterparts, both in efficiency and
simplicity. Many computational tasks are fundamentally impossible
without randomization. However, mastering randomized algorithms
requires a basic mathematical understanding of the relevant
combinatorial probability theory, and therefore a regular
algorithms course will normally either skip them, or teach them
very superficially. Randomization is a way of thinking, that needs
a proper introduction. Applications in many areas will be
considered, e.g., graph algorithms, machine learning, distributed
computing, and geometry, but the focus will be on the general
understanding, the goal being to give the students the foundation
needed to understand and use randomization, no matter what
application area they may later be interested in.

The students should enjoy
mathematics, as the course uses the power of
mathematics to understand and prove good performance of algorithms.
It
is assumed that the students have completed an algorithms course
such
as Advanced Algorithms and Data Structures, and are comfortable
using
mathematical proofs in the analysis of algorithms.

This course has
considerable overlap with the BSc-level course "Randomiserede
algoritmer for dataanalyse". It is not recommended that you
take this course if you have already taken the other. For details,
contact the course coordinator.

The student must solve mandatory assignments during the
course. Assignments will be made each week and be due in the
following week. 5 out of 7 assignments must be submitted by
the due date in order to qualify for the exam.

Aid

All aids allowed

Marking scale

7-point grading scale

Censorship form

No external censorship

Several internal examiners

Re-exam

Re-exam same as ordinary exam.

If the student is not yet qualified, then qualification can
be achieved by handing-in the missing assignments. The
missing assignments must be submitted no later than
two weeks before the re-exam date in order to qualify
for the exam.